11/27/19

Today I decided to make a trip up to the Blue River in Oklahoma with my cousin. The Blue River is about a four hour drive away, but never seems to disappoint this time of year. I fish there year round for smallmouth bass, but this time of year offers some of the best trout fishing within driving distance of DFW. We packed up the truck and headed out around 4:30 AM to get there and on the water for the morning bite that always proves its worth. As we took off into the darkness with coffee mug in hand I could feel the trout calling my name. It feels like such a long time since I have gotten to fish that I forgot how much I truly love it. Although it was cold, it was worth it. My cousin and I started the morning slow-stripping wooly buggers with one lead split shot to get them down to the bottom of the river faster. I quickly hooked up with the fish pictured below. It was the first of many rainbows that day. This river is unique because it is catch and release only, which never really affects me. I rarely keep fish but when I do I make sure to eat what I keep. This river also has a barbless hook policy, meaning that you must mash down the barb of the hook. This policy proves effective in ensuring the fish stay healthy all winter. As the sun heated up the fish slowed down quite a bit. We didn't let that stop us from having fun. We walked a good part of five miles of river, talking and laughing as we continued our pursuit for finicky trout. At the day's end we counted around twenty five fish between us. A solid day for sure. However, on this particular outing I think we enjoyed each other's company more than any fish caught. I always enjoy the breaks from school so much because they give me an opportunity to catch up with family and friends that I don't get the chance to see on a daily basis.